Mercedes G-Wagon impressive automobile

The Mercedes-Benz G-Class, or G-Wagon, vehicle is a four-wheel drive automobile that also falls in the sport utility vehicle category or SUV. From German automaker Mercedes-Benz, the G-Wagon was first introduced in the 1970s based on demand for a military vehicle and today this 4WD is a very collectable vehicle and several owners clubs do exist if you would like more information then read on.

The automobile recently celebrates 28 years of production today ( 2005 ) and re-launched the Mercedes-Benz G55 AMG as the G55 Kompressor or G55K to celebrate 25 years of production in 05. As with other Mercedes the engine size is depicted in the model name. This for example is the G55K model. G is for G-Wagon, 55 is means that this vehicle model has a 5.5 litre engine and K stands for Kompressor which means Supercharged! The revamped model received a boost in power, thanks to a 5.5-litre, supercharged V8 developing 469 hp (350 kW) and 516 lb·ft (700 N·m). of torque.

Mercedes has long been a symbol of prestige both European and world automakers. The company initially began as an aircraft engine maker and transitioned in the cars and motorcycles in the 1920s to 1930s. The company's history includes several periods of production that were either effected or delayed based on wars (e.g. WWI and WWII). It makes brilliant sense, then, that Mercedes would dive into a call for a military type vehicle when it came about during the 70s.

After its initial introduction, the G-Wagon was redesigned in 1990-1991. The model is hand made in Graz, Austria, and there are over 4,000 to 6,000 products manufactured each year. This makes the G-Wagon a sought after SUV, four-wheel drive model. The small production mentality for the civilian version of the G-Wagon follow the history of the model, that included many earlier models designed as customised vehicles for various military buyers. The major difference between earlier military versions of the G-Wagon and current civilian production of the commercial vehicle is the more standardised approach to modern production. The G-Wagon has maintained its stable look and features in recent years.

The original W460 series that was popular with military personnel and off-road adventurers was replaced in August of 1991 by the modestly revamped W461 series. To most casual observers, the end of the 460 and the beginning of the 461 resulted in very little practical changes to the product. Four-cylinder and five-cylinder engines were the options for engines. During production in the later 1990s, the W461 did gain a more updated interior look that included better seats, changed door panels and an updated dashboard. The previously used petrol engine was dropped leaving the 290GD Turbo Diesel 4-speed automatic transmission as the standard. Disc brakes also became the norm. Other than these modest adjustments, production of the W461 G-Wagon has remained very steady since the 1991 origin. There has been very little done to the exterior or other basic mechanical elements.

Another version of the G-Wagon was the W463 which was largely developed in response to desire from the US market to import the model. The 463 had the same basic makeup as the other G-Wagon models, but had a more luxurious interior and overall feel. The W461 became obsolete in 2001 when the model was no longer made available to civilian consumers. From 2002 forward, the Mercedes model has simply become known as the G-Wagon and is used for a variety of purposes.

One of the most popular civilian uses of the G-Wagon today is as a rental vehicle. It is often used as a more luxurious, high value rental, for weekend getaways where the consumer wants a luxury vehicle with plenty of storage space. The G-Wagon has the practical benefits of a traditional station wagon, but more of a sport utility vehicle look and sporty feel. Plenty of space enables the user to store equipment gear, luggage and other items.

Still popular for both consumer and military and political buyers, the basic G-Wagon product has been guaranteed for production until 2025 for NATO. Reportedly 63 countries around the world still use the G-Wagon models for military transport, including armed services in Germany, Canada and the United States.

Still, it is the combination of power and sleek and sporty that makes the Mercedes-Benz G-Wagon a popular choice for consumers. Mercedes-Benz has long been recognized as a brand of luxury and sport. It's vehicles are among the top models for racing professionals and are regularly purchased for weekend luxury and general luxury driving. With a guarantee for military production until 2025, consumers are likely to expect the ability to get consumer models of the G-Wagon for years to come as well.

The opinions expressed are those of the author and are not necessarily held by the Click4Group unless specifically stated. The material is for general information only. Always obtain independent, professional advice for your own particular situation.